Effects of Recess Depth and Orifice Diameter on Pneumatic Hammer Instability in Hydrostatic Thrust Bearings: Analysis and Experimental Validation

Abstract

Hydrostatic thrust bearings (HTBs) are required in various turbomachinery systems due to their substantial load capacity and superior rotor axial positioning capabilities, which minimize friction and heat generation. However, when lubricated with compressible fluids, these bearings can experience pneumatic hammer instability especially if the recess volume is significant. This study aims to establish design guidelines and experimentally validate the performance of hydrostatic thrust bearings, with a focus on predicting and mitigating pneumatic hammer instability. The research includes an investigation into the static load characteristics of these bearings when operated with air as the lubricant. The analysis in this paper covers the effects of varying supply pressures, recess depths, and orifice diameters on pneumatic hammer instability, as well as on the load capacity, stiffness, and damping coefficients of the bearings. To validate these findings, experiments are conducted using two test bearings with differing recess depths and orifice diameters. The results from both predictive models and experimental data consistently show that a shallow recess depth is effective in preventing pneumatic hammer instability without notably diminishing the bearing load capacity. Nonetheless, modifying the orifice diameter to control pneumatic hammer instability requires careful design consideration, as it might lead to decreased load capacity and stiffness. This research addresses the challenge of preventing pneumatic hammer instability in hydrostatic thrust bearings through a combined approach of numerical analysis and experimental testing. It contributes significantly to the field by offering practical design recommendations for optimizing recess depth and orifice diameter. These guidelines aim to eliminate pneumatic hammer instability while preserving critical performance aspects of hydrostatic thrust bearings, such as load capacity and stiffness.